Tips For Teens On Their First Interview

The first time you go into an interview can be an intimidating experience. Remember, though, this is a rite of passage that every teenager must endure. Even more, the person sitting across the table has almost definitely been in the other chair, sweating and nervous as they try to attain their first job. Below, we’ve listed some tips for doing great on your first interview.

Dress to Impress: You don’t have to wear a business suit, but you should take the time to prepare clothing that presents your best side. Think business casual; for guys, a pair of slacks and a collared shirt works well, and girls can’t go wrong with a skirt and a nice sweater. If you’re not sure how dressed up to get, err on the side of caution and dress up, rather than down.

Arrive Early: Plan to get to the interview at least 15 minutes early. Aside from the obvious negatives that go with showing up late, if you’re hurried on the way to the interview, it will only add to your stress level. Make sure you have the proper amount of time to get there safely, taking into account things like traffic and the walk over from your car. There’s nothing wrong with getting there a little early.

Practice Before the Big Day: Enlist a friend or family member to act as the interviewer. Draw up a list of the possible questions they might ask, and run through the answers a few times to get comfortable. It’s a great idea to start this the week before the interview itself, instead of trying to cram it all in the hour before the big event. If certain sections of the interview are giving you problems, run through them multiple times to get a good grip.

Bring Multiple Copies of Your Resume: This is a great way to show a potential employer that you’re responsible and prepared. Rather than having to shuffle papers across a desk, bring a couple of copies so that you can consult your CV at the same time as the interviewer.

Maintain Composure: There’s nothing more unnerving than an interviewee who can’t sit still. Don’t fidget, don’t cross and uncross your legs throughout, just relax. Maintain good body posture, and you’ll convey confidence and self-respect, two things that any boss is sure to appreciate in an employee.

Take a Deep Breath: During the interview, if you feel yourself starting to lose control, just take a deep breath and compose yourself. There’s no reason to feel anxious; even if you don’t get this job, there are plenty of opportunities down the road, and now you’ll be much better prepared.

Interviewing is a skill that you’ll have to embrace as you move through life, so why not start early? By embracing the tips above, you’ll have a great head start on the interviewing process, and you’ll be much more likely to get that job that you’ve been dreaming of.